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But the Frenchman refused to reflect too much on his departure and the circumstances behind it, insisting his only focus will be on ensuring his City team continue their recent good run of form.

“I think it will be a strange feeling of course,” he said of his impending return.

“It will be strange going back to the St Mary’s Stadium but it will be nice to see some familiar faces of course. The most important thing is to keep a good focus about my team and players and try to make a strong game.

“I have kept in touch with former players and staff. I gave it my very best at Southampton.

Manchester United's Jose Mourinho and Southampton's Claude Puel during the League Cup final in February, 2017. Photo credit by IAN KINGTON/AFP/Getty Images

"It was a good feeling all the season with the journey in the cup, but now I had no hesitation when Leicester gave me the opportunity and my focus now is on my team and with my club, Leicester.”

Puel admits he had some memorable times at St Mary’s and he hopes he will get a warm reception from the home fans who shared his experiences as his side lost a thrilling League Cup final at Wembley and took on Inter Milan in the Europa League.